Amp up your style.
It’s November, scarves and gloves are out, and all you brisk-weather fanatics have most likely studied up on the fall and winter fashion trends seen at a little thing called New York Fashion Week in September. Even if you’ve already spruced up your cold weather wardrobe, you can expect to be tempted as some of these styles gain popularity in the next few months.

Fashion writer Stacia Kindler scoured the runways for women’s trends, while Michael Wood checked out what the guys were wearing. Then, once their reports were in, Stacia weighed in on the upcoming men’s trends, while Mike told women what he really thinks about what they’re wearing.

WOMEN’S FASHION
Southwestern Americana
A classic Southwestern-inspired Americana aesthetic exploded onto the runways this season, showcasing bucketfuls of interesting knits, rustic lace-up footwear and distressed cowboy-chic everything. Pair your favorite worn-in denim with a full-brim felt hat or pick up a poncho for a calm and cool western vibe. To top it off, layer on some hammered silver or turquoise accessories.

Mike’s take: Popular in the western states for more than a few seasons, I’ve see women rocking this style … with mixed results. I think the key is subtlety. Be sure not to overdo it. It should be New Mexico visits New England, not New Mexico invades and conquers New England. 

Thigh-high footwear
On the footwear side of things, an old favorite is making a comeback in a big way. Taking a break from the limelight for a few years, the sky-high, over-the-knee footwear trend is back and reaching new heights with plenty of choices in material, heel shape and overall style. With these many options, the trend known for its yo-yoing popularity might just stick around for a little longer this time.

Mike’s take: From a guy’s point of view, women can never go wrong with thigh-high boots. They’re just sexy. Plus, they’re a functional footwear choice for females for fall through winter. That can be five or six months around here, and that makes thigh-high footwear a win-win for everyone.

Turtlenecks
If you are looking for a good go-to knit, statement turtlenecks are being seen everywhere and are anything but boring. Designers rolled out some extreme turtlenecks during Fashion Week, some so big they might even make you look taller. In-your-face fashion with an actual function ~ give this trend a try and leave the scarf at home.

Mike’s take: Turtlenecks are back for both men and women this year, and this very functional fashion staple has so many interpretations this season, women can wear them to make a statement rather than just as a go-to garment when winter’s chill runs deep.

Robe coats
Of course, staying warm is what is important with the colder weather, but the struggle with finding an acceptable balance between style and warmth is real. Typically, one of the two has to take a backseat. Luckily, the largest trend in coats this year is the robe coat. Oversized enough to layer underneath, robe coats are the epitome of comfy-cozy. No fuss either ~ just give the center a quick tie and off you go!

Mike’s take: I’m all for convenience and easy-to-wear fashion choices ~ especially in winter, when all you want to be is warm. These are definitely better than the “blanket coats” that were so popular last year, so while I may not love the concept (a robe as a coat?), they do look cozy, so I say go for it.

Hollywood fur
Speaking of outerwear, it might be impossible to do fall without fur this year. Classic old Hollywood-style furs are a mainstay in outerwear fashion, left over from last year but bolder and with more colors and silhouettes to choose from. Not so daring? It’s still possible to get in on some of the action with the rising popularity of the more subtle Astrakhan fur. This style manages to give off the elegant, confident vibe of more extravagant fur while being a bit more day-to-day wearable.

Mike’s take: There’s definitely old-school glamour in the sight of sophisticated ladies wearing fur, but unless you’re finding your fur in vintage shops or secondhand stores, I think faux fur is the way to go in 2014 and beyond.

MEN’S FASHION
Trench coats and raincoats
We’re looking at three-quarter-length designs as the most popular look this autumn, but full-length options with fitted or slim cuts are a stylish addition to your wardrobe, too. The pieces can come lined (for cooler nights) or in water-repellant neoprene ~ or both ~ so the coats are versatile for all the different kinds of fall weather we get in New England, and they’re workable as winter wear, as well.

Stacia’s take: I could see this as a daytime look on a professional guy, or guys can wear one of these on a job interview to instantly add some class to an outfit. I might stay away from coats that are too long to avoid this looking dress-like from behind. Keep this in the closet for after hours and weekends, however, as it may read as a bit uptight.

Gently distressed denim
There is fine line when it comes to denim, so let’s be clear: We’re not talking about acid wash or those jeans torn or shredded machete-style into complete disrepair. You want gently washed jeans that show some distress, so they look lived-in, worn and relaxed. You can dress them up with blazers, sweaters or shirts, and ties, too, so don’t rely solely on those dark washes for a night on the town. Distress may not look good on you, but it will look good on your jeans.

Stacia’s take: Denim is undoubtedly a necessity. A great pair can truly transform a wardrobe and even elevate your confidence. Try to stick to these guidelines when shopping for a new pair this fall, as it is important to find a balance between completely untethered and too buttoned-up.

Down vests and jackets
These outerwear pieces are perfect for layering because they’re so lightweight. They’re slimmer than seasons past, but these versatile vests come in a number of styles and designs that will work for any size guy. We’re also fans of the down jackets because once the weather gets a little cooler, we can cover up our arms but keep a similar look. Be sure to look for those that are fitted or cut in at the waist or you might look like a bell (not good). The jackets and vests are also super portable, since you can fold them down into tight, packable spaces when traveling and pull them out without worrying about wrinkles.

Stacia’s take: Down outerwear has been elevated to a staple this season. The trend has taken on a kind of Americana aesthetic, with plenty of color and style choices to match with any wardrobe. Who doesn’t love a practical trend?

Turtlenecks and roll necks
Yes, we’re serious. Bear with us, now. Please don’t attempt to wear turtlenecks alone ~ unless they are of the sweater variety. These close-fitting, high-collared 1970s staples were all over the men’s runways this fall, and they’re making a comeback … whether we like it or not. Some designers are calling them roll necks, but the concept and the look is the same. Wear the cotton varieties under cardigans, sweaters or blazers, and they can add a splash of color or class up a very functional look.

Stacia’s take: Not exactly sure about this one. I’d have to see it done right. Even so, it doesn’t seem like something for everyone. The whole turtleneck style not only communicates a strictly feminine aesthetic to me, but I’m almost certain I’ve never seen a man under the age of 50 wear one. Proceed with caution.

Socks
Yes, socks. Maybe this doesn’t sound so flashy for a fall or winter fashion trend, but with gloomy weather ahead, punching up the fun factor on your feet will turn something seemingly boring into your wardrobe’s highlight. These are not your grandpa’s socks of yesteryear. Men are spicing up their ankles with wildly colorful and patterned socks under their jeans or slacks to offer just a speck of color while wearing otherwise conservative clothes.

Stacia’s take: I love that men are thinking about the bigger picture and paying attention to detail. With strict dress codes and work uniforms, spicing up an otherwise lackluster getup with a colorful sock shows that a guy puts a little bit of thought into his appearance. It’s also a great way to incorporate some color into your wardrobe while being tasteful. For dudes on a budget, this is a quick, easy and cheap wardrobe update.

By Stacia Kindler and Mike Wood